To: University of Chicago faculty, students, and staff
From: President Robert J. Zimmer and Provost Thomas F. Rosenbaum
Re: Report of External Investigators on Recent Protests
Date: May 20, 2013

In March we wrote to announce the appointment of an independent reviewer to investigate a protest in which a police officer posed as a demonstrator.

You may now read the full report on that investigation. This report provides facts about the protest in question, as well as a previous, related protest. The report highlights both appropriate and inappropriate actions.

We have asked Nim Chinniah, Executive Vice President for Administration, and Karen Warren Coleman, Vice President for Campus Life and Student Services, to lead the response in addressing inappropriate actions and in strengthening policies, processes, and communication that can ensure the University’s values are being forcefully articulated and protected. They will work closely with the faculty Committee on Dissent and Protest appointed by the Provost in response to the incident in question. You may read more about specific steps.

We want to reiterate the University’s absolute commitment to open discourse. Legitimate protest is a part of that discourse, and we will continue to take the necessary steps to protect our legacy of free expression, discourse, and inquiry.